Faulkner University claims doubleheader sweep of Shawnee State

MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- Will Dismukes and Johnny Shuttlesworth each allowed only one run in impressive outings, lifting ninth-ranked Faulkner University to a doubleheader sweep of Shawnee State here Saturday afternoon at Harrison Field.

The Eagles (7-1) blasted the Bears 9-2 behind Dismukes in Game 1 and 8-2 behind Shuttlesworth in Game 2. Dismukes (1-0) scattered five hits in seven innings of work, striking out eight and walking only two. Shuttlesworth (2-0) allowed six hits, collecting four strikeouts while walking one.

The Bears (2-4) scored runs in the first inning of each game before Faulkner took control in both outings. In the first game the Eagles scored single runs in the second and fourth to take the lead, then put the game away with seven runs over the next four frames. David Bishop provided the big bat in the opener, bashing a home run and a double while driving in two runs and scoring four more.

Darius Holquin and Zac Colby added two hits apiece in Game 1, with Esteban Paula had a pair of RBI. Shawnee State committed four errors in the game, and only four of Faulkner's runs were earned.

"We were able to take advantage of their mistakes," Faulkner head coach Patrick McCarthy said. "And I was pleased with our pitchers pounded the strike zone."

Holquin, Michael Cruz and Paula each singled in first-inning runs in the nightcap to supply enough support for Shuttlesworth. Brook Boudreaux had a three-run double in the sixth inning to put the game away for the Eagles. Paula, Cayleb Coker and Luis Sanchez each had two hits to pace Faulkner's 10-hit attack.

"I thought we played well as a team today," McCarthy added. "Collectively, it was a good day for our ball club."

Faulkner hosts the University of the Cumberlands Sunday in another non-conference doubleheader. First pitch is set for noon.